Boxing has always been one of the most lucrative sports in the world, with fighters earning massive paydays for their performances inside the ring. However, the true financial champions are those who have managed to build lasting wealth through smart business ventures, endorsements, and strategic investments.
In this article, we take a closer look at the richest boxers in history, ranking them based on their net worth. From legendary champions to modern superstars, these fighters have not only dominated in the ring but have also secured their financial legacies outside of it.
15. Marvin Hagler – £35,100,000
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Marvin Hagler was one of the greatest middleweight champions in boxing history. Most of his wealth came from his legendary fights in the 1980s, particularly against Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard. After retiring, he moved to Italy and worked as an actor, adding to his earnings.
Mike Tyson was once worth hundreds of millions, but bad financial decisions and legal troubles led to significant losses. Still, his wealth today comes from boxing exhibitions, movie appearances, and endorsements, including his cannabis business, which has proven highly successful.
Vitali Klitschko, a former heavyweight champion, made most of his fortune inside the ring. He later transitioned into politics and became the mayor of Kyiv, Ukraine. While he no longer boxes, his wealth is largely sustained through previous fight purses and various business ventures.
12. Anthony Joshua – £62,400,000
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Anthony Joshua is one of the most marketable fighters in boxing today. He has earned massive purses from world title fights and lucrative sponsorship deals with brands like Under Armour and Beats by Dre. His business investments and smart financial management keep his wealth growing.
11. Wladimir Klitschko – £70,200,000
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Wladimir Klitschko, like his brother Vitali, dominated the heavyweight division for over a decade. His long reign as world champion resulted in huge paydays. After retiring, he has worked in business, investments, and mentorship programs, helping him maintain his financial standing.
10. Jake Paul – £78,000,000
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Jake Paul is a unique entry on this list. He made his initial fortune as a YouTuber and social media influencer before transitioning into boxing. His fights generate millions through pay-per-view sales, and his business ventures, including his promotions company, further boost his income.
Sugar Ray Leonard was one of the biggest stars in boxing during the 1980s, earning millions from high-profile fights against Roberto Durán and Marvin Hagler. His wealth has continued to grow through endorsements, broadcasting work, and motivational speaking engagements.
8. Lennox Lewis – £93,600,000
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Lennox Lewis was an undisputed heavyweight champion who amassed enormous purses during his career. His net worth remains high thanks to investments, real estate, and media work. He also earns from commentary and boxing-related promotions.
7. Tyson Fury – £113,880,000
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Tyson Fury has made a fortune from his incredible boxing comeback and blockbuster fights with Deontay Wilder. His pay-per-view earnings, sponsorships, and business deals—such as his autobiography and Netflix series—have significantly contributed to his growing wealth.
6. Oleksandr Usyk – £128,700,000
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Oleksandr Usyk has become a dominant force in boxing, earning millions through his victories in the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions. His wealth is mainly from fight purses and endorsements, with his recent unification bouts adding significantly to his fortune.
Oscar De La Hoya made a substantial amount from his fights, but his biggest financial success came after retirement. He founded Golden Boy Promotions, one of the top boxing promotion companies, which continues to bring in millions annually.
4. Manny Pacquiao – £171,600,000
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Manny Pacquiao is one of boxing’s highest earners, with multiple world titles in different weight classes. His wealth extends beyond boxing, as he has pursued a career in politics, business, and entertainment. He has also had sponsorships with global brands.
3. Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez – £195,000,000
Canelo Alvarez is boxing’s biggest active superstar, signing record-breaking contracts, including a £300 million deal with DAZN. His wealth comes from pay-per-view fights, sponsorships, and his tequila brand, which has become a lucrative side business.
2. George Foreman – £234,000,000
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George Foreman earned millions in boxing, but his greatest financial success came from the George Foreman Grill. He reportedly made over £150 million from this business alone, making him one of the richest former athletes in the world.
Floyd “Money” Mayweather is the richest boxer of all time. His wealth comes from massive fight purses, including his record-breaking bouts with Conor McGregor and Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather has also invested in real estate, businesses, and exhibition fights, keeping his fortune growing.
